The new Slough Bus Station is more than just a hub for commuters heading east to London - the project is part of a larger regeneration project that improves pedestrian access to and from the adjacent rail station. An undulating, <a href="http://inhabitat.com/shiny-serpentine-jeongok-prehistory-museum-in-korea-now-complete/">metallic tube</a> serves as a canopy for the passenger waiting area and new restrooms, while a cafe and amenities improve the functionality of the space. Designed by London-based <a href="http://www.bblur.com/" target="_blank">BBlur Architecture</a>, the Slough Bus Station is built to BREEAM 'Very Good' standards and includes energy efficient design with more eco friendly materials.

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Slough Bus Station-BBlur Architecture

The new <a href="http://inhabitat.com/solar-powered-bus-shelter-unveiled-in-san-francisco/">bus station</a> is located opposite the main railway station and takes the place of the former and outdated bus station, a derelict office building, and a multi-story car park.

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Slough Bus Station-BBlur Architecture

Before, the old bus station and buildings caused a significant urban barrier to the town center.

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Slough Bus Station-BBlur Architecture

So the purpose of the new station was bifold. First, the project was to provide new, safe, efficient and enjoyable public transport facilities in conjunction with the <a href="http://inhabitat.com/spiraling-superfuturistic-newport-station-in-wales-connects-two-sides-of-the-city/">railway station</a>.

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Slough Bus Station-BBlur Architecture

Second, the station was to create a improve pedestrian permeability from the station to the city center.

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Slough Bus Station-BBlur Architecture

This new pathway is through the bus station and underneath the large tubular canopy, which was inspired by Astronomer Royal, William Herschel’s discovery of infra-red waves in 1800 while a resident of Slough.

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Slough Bus Station-BBlur Architecture

Slough Bus Station consists of the 130 meter <a href="http://inhabitat.com/solar-powered-garden-canopy-proposed-for-new-yorks-bqe/">canopy</a> anchored at one end by a 660 sq meter accommodation building that looks out over the railway.

The first floor contains the staff canteen, toilets and bus operator’s administration offices.

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Slough Bus Station-BBlur Architecture

Covered in aluminum shingles, the tubular canopy reflects the changing light conditions and is a counterpoint to the surrounding rectilinear architecture.

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Slough Bus Station-BBlur Architecture

Besides being designed to <a href="http://inhabitat.com/tag/BREEAM">BREEAM</a> 'Very Good' standards, the bus station incorporates ground source heat pumps, grey water collection, and low energy lighting used throughout the scheme.

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Slough Bus Station-BBlur Architecture

Heat gain is minimized by the orientation of the building, a heavily insulated envelope and carefully placed windows.

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Slough Bus Station-BBlur Architecture

The <a href="http://inhabitat.com/shiny-serpentine-jeongok-prehistory-museum-in-korea-now-complete/">aluminum cladding</a> is 97% recyclable and recycled plastic battons were used in the cladding build up.

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Slough Bus Station-BBlur Architecture

The Slough Bus Station is the first part of a larger redevelopment project to provide a high quality urban environment for the "Heart of Slough".

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Slough Bus Station-BBlur Architecture

The new Slough Bus Station is more than just a hub for commuters heading east to London - the project is part of a larger regeneration project that improves pedestrian access to and from the adjacent rail station. An undulating, metallic tube serves as a canopy for the passenger waiting area and new restrooms, while a cafe and amenities improve the functionality of the space. Designed by London-based BBlur Architecture, the Slough Bus Station is built to BREEAM 'Very Good' standards and includes energy efficient design with more eco friendly materials.